Crowds flock back to Theatreland for PappadamS

Crowds are flocking back to the site of Swindon’s former Empire Theatre, which for many years was occupied by popular Italian restaurant La Dolce Vita.

New tenants PappadamS, which specialises in authentic Indian cuisine, opened its doors – at the corner of Groundwell Road and Clarence Street, stone’s throw from the Wyvern Theatre and new Regent Circus leisure complex – last night.

And in tribute to Diana Dors, the Swindon-born legend of stage and screen who graced the stage of The Empire, Swindon beauty queens Georgia Delaney, Catissa Creighton, Nicole Cox and Hannah Golding were on hand to help launch the new business.

Thedy were joined by Labour’s Parliamentary candidate for Swindon South, Anne Snelgrove, and the Mayor of Swindon, Teresa Page.

Friends Rijo John and Robby George, originally from the southern Indian state of Kerala, opened the first PappadamS in Reading in 2011. The opening of the Swindon operation is seen as testament to the success of the revitalisation of the Regent Circus area of town.

PR and Event Manager Daniel J Webb said: “I’m sure that many will agree, it’s about time the old La Dolce Vita unit was occupied, and with the new Regent Circus development doing so well, this is prime placement for any restaurant looking to make success in the town.”

Guests at last night-s launch event enjoyed sampling fine food, a free drink on arrival and live music all evening, from local talented artists Richelle Bull and Joshua Heather.